Lyles graduates with a gem in 2-1 loss

In keeping with the season, Astros manager Bo Porter described Tuesday as “graduation day” for starter Jordan Lyles, who pitched seven strong innings in a 2-1 loss to Colorado in front of the second-smallest announced crowd (11,974) in the history of Minute Maid Park.

After allowing a first-inning run, Lyles held Colorado scoreless.

The Rockies got the win in the ninth. Troy Tulowitzki led off with a double to deep right-center off Astros closer Jose Veras (0-4), took third on a wild pitch and scored on Michael Cuddyer’s liner over the head of third baseman Matt Dominguez.

“Cuddyer is a veteran hitter,” Porter said. “You see that slider, and he was able to go down and lift it up. It’s a really good pitch, and he basically put even a better swing on it.”

Lyles allowed six hits and three walks while striking out three in his 110-pitch performance.

“Today is what I would call a graduation. That was pretty good,” Porter said. “I told him when we talked earlier in the season there will be a point in time when we’re going to ride you. Today was that day, and he answered the call and did a tremendous job.”

Lyles shrugged off the compliment, saying, “I’m just trying to get outs, really. Trying to get a good outing and not let our bullpen throw too many innings.”

The Rockies scored in the top of the first. Lyles walked leadoff hitter Dexter Fowler, who went to third and scored on infield singles by Nolan Arenado and Tulowitzki, respectively.

Lyles got a big boost from his defense in the third inning. With Arenado at third and Carlos Gonzalez at first with one out, shortstop Ronny Cedeno dashed into short left field to make an over-the-shoulder catch of Tulowitzki’s short popup and then threw home to nail Arenado trying to score.

“If that’s in the Olympics, you’re judging it a 10,” Porter said.

Lyles also pitched out of a bases-loaded jam in the fourth, striking out catcher Yorvit Torrealba and inducing an inning-ending double play grounder from D.J. LeMahieu.

The Astros tied the score in the fourth against Rockies starter Jorge De La Rosa. Carlos Corporan, who had been hit by a pitch, took third on J.D. Martinez’ double to deep right and scored when he beat Tulowitzki’s throw home on Chris Carter’s grounder.